Sitting Schedule & Order Papers
Sitting Dates & Sitting Hours
Under Standing Order No. 8, regular Council sittings are convened twice monthly on the Tuesday following the first and third Sunday of each calendar month, unless otherwise resolved by the assembly.
- Regular Sittings: 9:30 AM to 2:00 PM.
- Annual Budget Debates: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM.
- Special sittings summoned by the Hon. Governor commence at the time specified in the Gazette proclamation.
The official Order Paper is formulated by the Council Secretary in accordance with recommendations from the Business Committee.
Dispatched several days in advance to all Honourable Members via postal and digital networks, enabling thorough preparation for legislative business.
Ceremonial Protocol & Commencement
Commencement & Entry
The division bells sound. The Serjeant-at-Arms bearing the Ceremonial Mace precedes the Honourable Chairman into the Chamber, formally commencing business.
Official Dress Code
Attending members must observe formal chamber attire: Western lounge suits, long-sleeved tunic collared shirts and trousers, or Sri Lankan National Dress.
Chamber Languages
Business is conducted in the Official Languages (Sinhala and Tamil), with members entitled to address in the link language (English). Simultaneous interpretation is provided.
Statutory Provisions & Quorum
Chamber Quorum
Quorum constitutes one-third (1/3) of the total membership (including the presiding chair). If lack of quorum is declared, bells ring for 5 minutes; if still unmet, the sitting is adjourned.
Presiding Officers
In the Chairman’s absence, the Deputy Chairman presides. If both are absent, a member from the Chairman's Panel or an elected member chairs the sitting.
Election of Chairman
Conducted at the first meeting following general elections. Under the 2002 amendment, an absolute majority of total Council membership is required.
Seat Allocation
Allocated at the discretion of the Chairman based on parliamentary seniority, political party status, and ministerial portfolios.
Rules of Debate & Adjournment
Debate Rules: Comprehensive instructions in Standing Orders 64 through 67 govern debate decorum. All interventions must be addressed directly to the Chair; unparliamentary language and personal imputations are strictly prohibited.
Adjournment & Suspension: Motions for adjournment may be moved by a Minister or Leader of the House. In cases of grave disorder, the Chairman holds discretion to temporarily suspend or adjourn the sitting without question put.